The predicted wet February has turned a grim economic situation a bit more sunny and cinched a longer ski season.

Mammoth Mountain Ski Area officials noted before the last storm that the additional five and a half feet of snow in the first half of February went a long way to improve conditions and generate more interest in skiing.

Skiers did arrive in Mammoth for the President’s weekend. Ski Area Officials report 21,399 visitors to Mammoth Mountain and June Mountain on Saturday. 18,611 visitors headed to the two resorts on Sunday. With heavy snow on Monday, the long line of cars headed south on 395 translated to short lines on the hill. 8,567 people were recorded at Mammoth and June, on Monday.

With an earlier base depth of 8 to 13 feet at the end of last week, Mammoth officials said that the Ski Area would remain open until Memorial Day, with a possibility of remaining open into June or July if conditions permit.

Officials added that with some of the best winter conditions of any resort in North America this season, Mammoth Mountain is introducing several new deals to help everyone enjoy the slopes.

Earlier, Mammoth Mountain Ski Areas CEO Rusty Gregory had spoken plainly about the very difficult condition of the national recession and its impact on recreation. He also assured that Mammoth Mountain would look for ways to discount costs to encourage visitors.

On that note, Mammoth Mountain teamed up with Costco stores to provide lift tickets to Costco members at discounted prices. Costco members can buy a two-day midweek pass for $126 or a three-day pass valid any day of the week except holidays for about $56 per day.